Know more about a vehicle’s history before you buy.
A vehicle history report can help you review available records related to accidents, title history, mileage, theft, recalls and other events before making a used-car purchase.
Check Vehicle HistoryA used car can have a history you can’t see.
The VIN can help connect a vehicle to available historical records that may be useful when evaluating a purchase.
Accident History
Review available information about reported accidents, dates and possible damage.
Title Information
Look for available records involving title brands such as salvage or reconstructed status.
Odometer Records
Compare available mileage records and look for possible inconsistencies.
Theft Records
Check available information related to theft and recovery status.
Sale & Lien Events
Reports may contain details related to previous sale and lien events.
Commercial Use
Available records may indicate taxi, police, government fleet or other commercial use.
The VIN tells a story.
Use it as one more tool when researching a vehicle before purchase.
Research the vehicle — not just the seller’s description.
A clean-looking car does not necessarily tell you what may exist in historical records. Checking the VIN can add another layer of information to your buying process.
- Review available vehicle history information
- Look for reported title and accident events
- Compare available mileage information
- Check theft, recall and other possible records
- Use the report together with a professional inspection
How the VIN lookup works
You’ll continue to our recommended vehicle-history provider to perform the VIN search.
Find the VIN
Locate the vehicle’s 17-character VIN on the vehicle or its documents.
Run the Search
Enter the VIN on the provider’s website to begin the vehicle-history search.
Review the Information
Review the records made available for that particular vehicle.
Shopping for a used vehicle?
Take a few minutes to research the VIN before making your decision. You’ll be redirected to VinCheckUp to perform the search.
Check Vehicle History →Before you search
What is a VIN?
A VIN is the unique Vehicle Identification Number assigned to a vehicle. Modern VINs generally contain 17 characters.
Where can I find the VIN?
It may appear on the dashboard near the windshield, the driver’s-side door area, registration documents, title documents or insurance paperwork.
Does a history report replace a vehicle inspection?
No. Vehicle-history information should be used as one part of your research and does not replace an inspection by a qualified professional.
Will every vehicle have the same amount of information?
No. Record availability varies by vehicle and by the data available from the provider’s sources.